How the Marines Capture a Target in 5 Steps

Future amphibious invasions won't need beachheads to serve as staging areas. Instead, aircraft and weapons will enable Marines to strike deep inland from nearby bases or ships. Here's how modern Marines would use new tech to take Objective X.

1. Clear the Air

1. Clear the Air

An F-35B Lightning II aircraft targets defensive command centers and mobile, radar-guided antiaircraft guns. This enables other aircraft to operate safely over the area during the coming attack. The jump jet needs no aircraft carrier; it takes off and lands from a smaller amphibious assault ship.

2. Secure the Landing Zone

2. Secure the Landing Zone

Amphibious vehicles deploy from the assault ship, land, and travel off-road to preserve the element of surprise. Infantry dismount from the vehicles and secure a landing zone with a defensive perimeter. The Corps' highest current priority is a new landing craft that can travel faster and farther over water.